Knowledge of Community Members on Risk Factors Influencing Maternal Mortality in Ede South Local Government Area, Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract Background: Maternal mortality in Nigeria remains critical, with approximately 40,000 women dying annually due to pregnancy-related complications. Factors such as limited access to healthcare, poverty, and early marriage exacerbate the crisis, highlighting the need for more effective interventions. Objectives: This study assesses the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of community members regarding the risk factors influencing maternal mortality in Ede South Local Government Area, Osun State, Nigeria. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, involving 185 participants selected through systematic sampling. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and analysed with SPSS version 21. Results: The study encompassed 185 participants. 64.9% females with a mean age of 27.3 + 8.3 years. Among them, 60.5% were single, 46.6% being students, 55.7% held a BSc degree, 64.9% were Yoruba and 61.1% identified as Christian. Results show that 91.4% of participants were aware of maternal mortality, and most identified direct causes such as bleeding (88.1%) and unsafe abortion (88.6%). However, gaps remain in understanding risk factors like hypertension and awareness of relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted health education and improved healthcare services to address these gaps and reduce maternal mortality.